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ICD-10 Coding for Long QT Syndrome(I45.81, Q87.89)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Long QT Syndrome. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Long QT IntervalLQTSRomano-Ward SyndromeJervell and Lange-Nielsen Syndromeprolonged qt interval

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Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Long QT Syndrome

I45-I49Primary Range

Conduction disorders and arrhythmias

This range includes codes for various conduction disorders, including Long QT Syndrome.

Q87.8

Other specified congenital malformation syndromes

Used for congenital forms of Long QT Syndrome, such as Romano-Ward and Jervell and Lange-Nielsen syndromes.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
I45.81Long QT syndromeUse for confirmed cases of Long QT Syndrome not specified as congenital.
  • QTc ≥480 ms in females, ≥470 ms in males
  • Genetic testing confirming pathogenic variant
Q87.89Other specified congenital malformation syndromesUse as an additional code for congenital forms of Long QT Syndrome.
  • Genetic confirmation of congenital syndrome
  • Family history of sudden cardiac death

Clinical Decision Support

Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for Long QT Syndrome

Essential facts and insights about Long QT Syndrome

The ICD-10 code for Long QT Syndrome is I45.81. Use Q87.89 for congenital forms.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for long quart syndrome

I45.81
Long QT syndrome
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • QTc interval measurement and genetic testing results

documentation Criteria

  • Presence of arrhythmias and family history

Applicable To

  • Prolonged QT interval

Excludes

  • Congenital long QT syndrome (Q87.89)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • QTc ≥480 ms in females, ≥470 ms in males
  • Genetic testing confirming pathogenic variant

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly coding symptoms like syncope when arrhythmia is present

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies whether the condition is congenital or acquired.
View Full Code Details

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Abnormal cardiovascular study

R94.3
Use for asymptomatic patients with ECG findings but no active symptoms.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Ventricular tachycardia

I47.2
Use when VT is the primary focus of treatment.

Ventricular fibrillation

I49.0
Use when VF is documented and treated.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Long QT Syndrome to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code I45.81.

Impact

Clinical: Inadequate assessment of arrhythmia risk., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential denial of claims due to incomplete documentation.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure QTc values are recorded in every patient encounter., Use standardized templates for documentation.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment affecting reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Code I47.2 or I49.0 with I45.81 instead of R55.

Impact

Potential for miscoding congenital vs. acquired forms.

Mitigation Strategy

Implement regular training on coding guidelines and updates.

Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Long QT Syndrome, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Long QT Syndrome

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Long QT Syndrome. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Congenital Long QT Syndrome with VT

Specialty: Cardiology

Required Elements

  • QTc measurement
  • Genetic test results
  • Arrhythmia documentation

Example Documentation

Patient diagnosed with congenital Long QT syndrome (Romano-Ward type) confirmed by genetic testing, presenting with episodes of syncope due to ventricular tachycardia.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient has Long QT.
Good Documentation Example
Congenital LQTS (Romano-Ward) with QTc 510 ms (Bazett). KCNQ1 mutation positive. No current arrhythmias.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details on the type, genetic confirmation, and current status.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Long QT Syndrome? Ask your questions below.

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